Banjoist performs at Covell Gardens

Jack Convery, a former winner of the title “Best Banjoist of Northern California,” will perform at 7 p.m. Friday at Atria Covell Gardens, 1111 Alvarado Ave. in Davis. The concert is free and open to the public.

Born in Wichita, Kan., Convery spent his childhood in Fresno. He learned how to play the banjo at the age of 12 and he paid his dues by attending festivals and performing at pizza parlors.

His success as an entertainer led to a career in the entertainment booking business. He has worked with Ella Fitzgerald, Willie Nelson, The Temptations and Chris Isaak, among others.